What you need to know before you begin...

Public companies in the United States are required by law to file periodic reports and other forms with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These include the 10-K (annual) and 10-Q (quarterly) reports. Do not overlook the 8-K (other events) reports, these will outline significant changes affecting the company's management or organizational structure. For example; CEO deaths or resignations, layoffs, bankruptcy, etc.

Do not forget to review the company's website, it can hold a wealth of information and intelligence about the firm.

Private companies are not required by law to file reports or forms with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). However, if a private company has public subsidiaries the information is reported out. And some of the larger private companies push financial information to the public voluntarily.

Do not forget to review the company's website, it can hold a wealth of information and intelligence about the firm.